What is your job like at the Henderson County Cooperative Extension Service center?

I work with commercial vegetable farmers in all aspects of their farms, with an emphasis on improving agriculture production and sustainability. I work with farmers in three counties — Henderson, Buncombe and Haywood.

What brought you to Henderson County?

The job role was of great interest to me to be a part of the center of the local foods movement in North Carolina, and the west is my home. I grew up in Cherokee County and have kinfolks here in Hendersonville, so this was like coming back home for me.

How long have you been interested in agriculture? How long have you worked as an agricultural agent?

I have been interested in agriculture since I was about 8 years old, and have been an Extension agent for 23 years.

How has your field changed over the years?

My field has changed from carrying a notebook to the field to now using an electronic device like my phone (to take notes). Farming has changed a lot and we have gone back to the many farming ways of the historical past of the Appalachian region.

With the local foods movement and the emphasis on organic production, more and more people are farming in sustainable ways. Some of my plans are to emphasize sustainability in all vegetable productions systems in Henderson County. Sustainable farming is not necessarily organic farming, but using practices that maintain the viability of the environment we're farming in. We give back to the earth as much as we take away.

The farmers in Henderson County really care about their environment, which is head over heels above other farming areas.

What do you think are some of the top issues commercial vegetable growers face?

The top issues are, one, low profitability due to increasing input costs, weather problems and foreign imports. Two, residential growth and demand for farmland to be developed for housing. Three, cumbersome and costly food safety rules and regulation requirements. And four, a labor shortage.

When do you enjoy your job the most?

I love working in the mornings when the day is fresh and the day is anew.

Who has inspired you the most in your professional life?

My grandmother, and my influence of growing up on a farm.

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